For Roddick, whose world ranking has slipped to 27th, it was his earliest exit from the Memphis tournament in 12 appearances. Veteran Malisse, ranked 75th, was winless in four matches this season and in nine career matches against Roddick.

Roddick, seeded No. 2, has been slowed by hamstring and ankle problems this season. He was unable to capitalize on two set points in the first and was broken in the last game of the second by the 31-year-old Belgian.

Olivier Rochus of Belgium and Philipp Petzschner of Germany also pulled off upsets on Wednesday.